WTB: 2001-2004 Nissan Xterra

[flyingwil]

We are looking for a 2001-2004 Nissan Xterra. Any leads please let me know.

Why? We are replacing FlyingWen's Lexus POS, and FlyingWen has her mind set on an "Xterra with round headlights."

Requirements:
Preferably lower miles (under 100K).
Minimal to no rust.
4WD.

So OK, it is HER vehicle (I couldn't talk into a LC or FJ or 4Runner...I tried my best). I can see some potential.

[Scott Brady]

Xterra's are sweet, and reasonable. It will make a great car for you guys.

First time I have ever heard of a Lexus POS (is that possible?) :)

[bigreen505]

Does it still have to be yellow, or have the color choices expanded? :sunny:

[flyingwil]

Does it still have to be yellow, or have the color choices expanded? :sunny:


LOL... she wants yellow, but at this point we are open to other color options. There is this olive one that looks like a faded plastic army man toy, that she also likes. I think she may finally be over the yellow, but that is only one I have EVER seen in that color. I talked to the owner, and he said it was a factory color, and he has not seen an other one like it.

[flyingwil]

First time I have ever heard of a Lexus POS (is that possible?) :)


Yup come drive ours... Not really it is just old and begining to act like an older car. It's a 1994 Lexus ES300. Engine is a champ, and the transmission shifts hard. A/C was just serviced for the first time this summer. For the most part it is a champ, it is just getting old and worn in.

[dirtysouth]

:oops: I almost put mine up for sale here a couple of days ago but figured it would be too much of an hassle for most of the guy on here who appear to be mostly located out west. I just traded in mine at the local Nissan dealer yesterday for a 07 Frontier.

[flyingwil]

Did you have any major issues with your Xterra? They seem to be pretty decent, and every owner I talk to seems to love them.

[FlyingWen]

LOL... she wants yellow, but at this point we are open to other color options. There is this olive one that looks like a faded plastic army man toy, that she also likes. I think she may finally be over the yellow, but that is only one I have EVER seen in that color

Ok.. for the record. Flyingwil WANTS that army man green! I like yellow alot, but at this point I just want an Xterra and don't care about the color. I like green and burgundy, but am open to anything.. even orange.

2WD is ok too, but I would never hear the end of it from the hubby. He wants me to get 4WD b/c he think I would actually come rescue him if he gets his rig stuck :xxrotflma

Xterra MUST have pwr windows/locks. :safari-rig:

Let us know if anyone hears of a good one with lower miles.

[flyingwil]

2WD is ok too, but I would never hear the end of it from the hubby. He wants me to get 4WD b/c he think I would actually come rescue him if he gets his rig stuck :xxrotflma

Ummm Yeah... must have 4WD. :shakin:

[hattrik21]

You might try looking through the posts in this forum as I've seen a few rigs from time to time get posted.

http://www.xterraownersclub.com/ubb/ultimatebb.php?ubb=forum;f=25

[flyingwil]

You might try looking through the posts in this forum as I've seen a few rigs from time to time get posted.

http://www.xterraownersclub.com/ubb/ultimatebb.php?ubb=forum;f=25


Thanks!

[Big Daddy Chia]

U really dont want a first gen. U need to talk her into a second gen. More room better motor, better mpg.

[flyingwil]

U really dont want a first gen. U need to talk her into a second gen. More room better motor, better mpg.

Why? What are the major flaws of the 01-04's? She just likes the styling, and it is HER vehicle not mine.

[bigreen505]

I'm not sure there are any major flaws in the 01-04 models, but Chia is right, you get a lot more bang for the buck on the newer ones. They are at once more capable and more car-like, more comfortable, better interiors, gas mileage and close to a 100 hp. increase. Also much better crash protection for Flyingbaby.

[flyingwil]

I'm not sure there are any major flaws in the 01-04 models, but Chia is right, you get a lot more bang for the buck on the newer ones. They are at once more capable and more car-like, more comfortable, better interiors, gas mileage and close to a 100 hp. increase. Also much better crash protection for Flyingbaby.

Yeah, but it ultimately is up to FlyingWen. I too like the new ones, but the price tag and depretiation in resale value is my only concern. Her concern is that they don't have round headlights. :confused:

[erin]

Yeah Wil, go 2nd gen. Friends of ours had a 1st and really hated it once they had a kid, fightin with cars seats and what not. I thought it was pretty narrow, even more so than my Tacoma, which is a shame, because I like the 1st gen styling better.

[flyingwil]

Yeah Wil, go 2nd gen. Friends of ours had a 1st and really hated it once they had a kid, fightin with cars seats and what not. I thought it was pretty narrow, even more so than my Tacoma, which is a shame, because I like the 1st gen styling better.
Like I said... it is not my call... She doesn't like other vehicles because they are too big, she stated the 100 serries is too big, and the FJ's have to big of a dash board, and on and on... bottom line is she wants an Xterra with round headlights. What am I to do? It is HER vehicle, and her dream car for the past 6 years. All I can do is make sure we explore other options and she is happy with the end result.

[pskhaat]

she stated the 100 serries is too big

Until #2 and #3 come along. And did you two know 100 series' have rear AC? Seriously a good thing where we live! I also would be the 100 (or any LC) has a tighter turning radius than the Xterra. My pack-for-the-apocalypse wife would never trade her 100 as the kid-cruiser.

LC can't help on the round headlights, I love 'em too.

[flyingwil]

Until #2 and #3 come along. And did you two know 100 series' have rear AC? Seriously a good thing where we live! I also would be the 100 (or any LC) has a tighter turning radius than the Xterra. My pack-for-the-apocalypse wife would never trade her 100 as the kid-cruiser.

LC can't help on the round headlights, I love 'em too.


Too true Scott. Maybe we have to let her drive around the block in yours? I would love to see her stay in a Toyota, but ultimately prefer to see her happy. A happy wife is a happy husband.

[atomicclutch]

how much are you guys looking to spend? mine maybe for sale. just got a new job and hopefully getting a company truck. mines a silver 04 se/sc power everything.

[flyingwil]

how much are you guys looking to spend? mine maybe for sale. just got a new job and hopefully getting a company truck. mines a silver 04 se/sc power everything.


Any rust since you are in PIT, PA?

We are open to all options... I'll give you $5 for it?

[Big Daddy Chia]

THings u have to look out for on the previos gen models is cracked manifolds. The exhuast manifolds crack really bad. And 13mpg gas. Trust me and Hattrick can attest we both had 1st gens. There is a damn good reason we now both drive second gens.

[atomicclutch]

no rust at all! very clean when i bought it and continue to keep it VERY CLEAN. waxed at least once every 2 wks. just got back from a trip to Tybee Island, Ga. with no probs @ all with it. if you go to the nissan section under the post "new guy with x" you can see a pic of it.

[flyingwil]

THings u have to look out for on the previos gen models is cracked manifolds. The exhuast manifolds crack really bad. And 13mpg gas. Trust me and Hattrick can attest we both had 1st gens. There is a damn good reason we now both drive second gens.


Thanks Scott! How is the aftermarket support on them? I though I read somewhere that it shares the frame of the Titan and Frontier? Are the parts interchangable?

[dirtysouth]

Wil, only issues that I had with mine was the ac not wanting to work when stopped. I believe someone else on the site may have had the same problem on theirs with the same mileage 70k. They're not powerful vehicles either but have enough to pass someone when you kick it down to a passing gear or just keep it around 3k rpms and it is fine. They have every bit of room as a 4 door tacoma or frontier, I've had all 3 and can attest to the fact that the car seat was in the same spot on all 3 vehicles. I got 15-16 mpg on the hwy with 235/85/16 bfg at's. It was a cool vehicle and I would've kept it had I not been looking at some life changes in the future. Mechanically I had no issues whatsoever other than the ac at a stand still. I can call and see if the dealership still has the one I traded in if you're interested in it. The new ones are a little bigger but have almost another 100 hp and probably get better gas mileage. The cargo area is also like the beds in the tacoma, a plastic type material instead of carpet and the roof basket has a lid now.

[flyingwil]

no rust at all! very clean when i bought it and continue to keep it VERY CLEAN. waxed at least once every 2 wks. just got back from a trip to Tybee Island, Ga. with no probs @ all with it. if you go to the nissan section under the post "new guy with x" you can see a pic of it.


How much are you asking? Miles?


Wil, only issues that I had with mine was the ac not wanting to work when stopped. I believe someone else on the site may have had the same problem on theirs with the same mileage 70k. They're not powerful vehicles either but have enough to pass someone when you kick it down to a passing gear or just keep it around 3k rpms and it is fine. They have every bit of room as a 4 door tacoma or frontier, I've had all 3 and can attest to the fact that the car seat was in the same spot on all 3 vehicles. I got 15-16 mpg on the hwy with 235/85/16 bfg at's. It was a cool vehicle and I would've kept it had I not been looking at some life changes in the future. Mechanically I had no issues whatsoever other than the ac at a stand still. I can call and see if the dealership still has the one I traded in if you're interested in it. The new ones are a little bigger but have almost another 100 hp and probably get better gas mileage. The cargo area is also like the beds in the tacoma, a plastic type material instead of carpet and the roof basket has a lid now.

Great info... Thanks! we test drove a handful around here and I saw the perfomance as stated above, but FlyingWen seemed to think it was fine. Gas milage sucks, but you have to pay for what you want sometimes. It is odd, but my '01 Taco has more room for the car seat than the Lexus. Thanks for the offer about the dealer but we would rather deal private party and skip the dealership fees, sounds like you had a good one.

[atomicclutch]

32k miles. not really sure what to ask. maybe around 16k.

[flyingwil]

32k miles. not really sure what to ask. maybe around 16k.

Bone stock? 4x4? Locked? check out http://www.kbb.com/ Price seems fair if it is an SE.

[atomicclutch]

kbb is 17,045. its 4x4 supercharged, torsion crank & shackle 1.5 lift. 265/70/17 at tires, surco roof rack. hellas on a prerunner bar up front. shovel and spare tire mounted to rack. custom rear drawer system. has a few chips from highway use, and a small ding in the passenger rear door.

[atomicclutch]

yes it is an se. loaded every option for the year except tow package. even has the factory rockford stereo with sub. i love it, but why pay for a vehicle if i can get a free one and free gas!

[flyingwil]

I'll run it by FlyingWen and see what she says, but I think the SC might hinder it, because it is "something we don't need." I'll shoot you a PM with what she says if she doesn't read this first.

[atomicclutch]

it is factory supercharged if that makes any difference. yea man just keep me posted. thanks Flyingwill!

[IggyB]

As an owner of a 00 Frontier and an 00 Xterra, here are my 2 bits.

Less horses than 05+ model.

Better driveline, cast front diff Vs. alum in 05. 9.25" gears in the back with axle diameter larger than Dana 44.

05+ models have been known to chuck gears.

00-04 have exhaust manifolds that crack. Other than a little noise at start up, no biggie. Rear main seal have been known to go. Auto tranny needs an external cooler. Supercharged engine needs premium gas.

You can put manual hubs on 00.

[gary in ohio]

There are 3 or 4 yellow xterra's that 2001-2004 round lights in my area.

use http://www.automart.com/search/vehicle and search 43219 (central ohio)

[The BN Guy]

Kinda getting in on the end of the conversation but...

Personally I'd stay away from the SC versions. Having to run super unlead gets expensive after a bit. That's one of the primary reasons a buddy of mine got rid of his.

[flyingwil]

Still on the market...

[98roamer]

I bought an silver XE in 12-99 and loved it for 5.5 years. I changed jobs and the commute made my wife and I switch vehicles. I now drive her 93 Corolla with over 200k. The Xterra was flawless for the 90K we drove it. The wife didn't like the lack of power, MPG and bouncy ride.
The engine and torsion bars systems are old but solid plus I also put on BFG AT KO 31's and 4 Bilsten shocks so that didn't help the "floaty" ride she wanted. It's a truck not a car.

Dependability was 100%, I spent $30 on a Climate control resistor, my mother ended up buying it and loves it to this day. She hasn't put a dime into it expect maintainence. She hauls 3 grandkids around everyday 2 in car seats and it's tight but they're little. The one loves it for she said "I can see out the windows" due to the stadium seating. The back seat isn't all that comfortable for adults and the step in area is skinny. I know the later years had a lot of electric window issues that all should be filtered out by now.

Offroad, even in stock form it holds it's own but other people that can tell you more about that- not that it's an issue.

http://picsftw.com/up/DCP01829.JPG

http://picsftw.com/up/DCP01833.JPG

I followed this Toy with no problems- kinda interesting that he and I both have 3gen 4Runners now.

http://picsftw.com/up/DCP01834.JPG

[hattrik21]

THings u have to look out for on the previos gen models is cracked manifolds. The exhuast manifolds crack really bad. And 13mpg gas. Trust me and Hattrick can attest we both had 1st gens. There is a damn good reason we now both drive second gens.

The main reason I got rid of my 02 was because of the supercharger. If I had the reg engine I'd still be in it today. The cost of prem gas at the time was killing me with my drive.

A few reasons to stay with an 02-04
More aftermarket stuff as of right now.....ARB where are you... hint hint
Bigger rear diff
Hubs in the front
More room in the engine bay if you wanted to go dual batteries
SAS kits available not that your wife will want one....as of right now.:)

Things to look for on an 02-04
Cracked manifold
Non SC engine is weak on the road IMO
Bad MPG with only 170 ponies but what SUV gets good gas mileage

Reasons to look at an 05+
Bigger more refined engine that runs on good ol 87 octane
Factory 32" tires and 33's fit with no trimming
Offroad version offers factory rear locker
Interior seems nicer to me as far as the layout

Things to consider with the 05+
Front diffs seem to be a weak point with the 265 HP
No 4x4 lever, its a switch now

[hattrik21]

Thanks Scott! How is the aftermarket support on them? I though I read somewhere that it shares the frame of the Titan and Frontier? Are the parts interchangable?

The frame design is the same, just smaller. The frame is shared between the Pathfinder, Xterra, and Frontier.

Aftermarket support is slowing getting there. There are still some big players that need to step up though.

[kcowyo]

No 4x4 lever, its a switch now

My understanding is the majority of lever activated transfer cases made in the last 5+ years do the same thing as the electronic switch. The manual lever does not engage the transfer case gear itself, but rather releases a plunger, which allows the t-case to engage. The electric switch has a small electronic motor, which when the switch is flipped "on", releases the plunger, allowing the t-case to be engaged.

So basically they do the same thing.

I'm not sure of specific dates and specific manufacturers regarding when this started, but it's been awhile. It's a popular misconception that the lever manually inserts the transfer case into gear and that one is "better" or "stronger" than the other.

[bigreen505]

My understanding is the majority of lever activated transfer cases made in the last 5+ years do the same thing as the electronic switch. The manual lever does not engage the transfer case gear itself, but rather releases a plunger, which allows the t-case to engage. The electric switch has a small electronic motor, which when the switch is flipped "on", releases the plunger, allowing the t-case to be engaged.


I was concerned about this when I was looking at a X because I had heard there was a long delay to engage 4wd on electronic systems. I sat in a parking lot with a new X and turned the dial and I could hear it instantly engage. Very cool.

[hattrik21]

My understanding is the majority of lever activated transfer cases made in the last 5+ years do the same thing as the electronic switch. The manual lever does not engage the transfer case gear itself, but rather releases a plunger, which allows the t-case to engage. The electric switch has a small electronic motor, which when the switch is flipped "on", releases the plunger, allowing the t-case to be engaged.

So basically they do the same thing.

I'm not sure of specific dates and specific manufacturers regarding when this started, but it's been awhile. It's a popular misconception that the lever manually inserts the transfer case into gear and that one is "better" or "stronger" than the other.

I've never heard that before but I'm pretty sure the 1st gen Xterra's the lever actually did the work as I've heard a few people grinding gears when going to and from low range when they don't know what the heck they are doing.

As far as my knob, I've had no issues so far and it works pretty quickly when you turn it.

[dirtysouth]

I've never heard that before but I'm pretty sure the 1st gen Xterra's the lever actually did the work as I've heard a few people grinding gears when going to and from low range when they don't know what the heck they are doing.

As far as my knob, I've had no issues so far and it works pretty quickly when you turn it.



Mine would grind if you wasn't careful when shifting into 4wheel drive

[jeffryscott]

yellow one in Tucson, pm'd you Wil.

http://tucson.craigslist.org/car/374503343.html

[flyingwil]

yellow one in Tucson, pm'd you Wil.

http://tucson.craigslist.org/car/374503343.html

Thanks man! :victory:

That one has been on there for a long time, too bad it has the square headlights.

[goofiefoot]

too bad it has the square headlights.


Aw, man - square headlights freaking RULE!!!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/jasongoode/Xterra/snowshot.jpg

:victory: :victory: :victory:

[goofiefoot]

Oh, but mine's not for sale. Just want to make that clear. :D

Good luck. They're great vehicles.

[98roamer]

Square Headlights are the Classics! :safari-rig:


http://picsftw.com/up/bartlet.jpg

http://picsftw.com/up/xotwbig27.jpg

but the round look nice also

http://picsftw.com/up/round.jpg

[jeffryscott]

Thanks man! :victory:

That one has been on there for a long time, too bad it has the square headlights.


It was in the year range, so didn't even notice the headlights. bummer, what about retrofitting? I know for a while it was all the rage to put Land Rover DII fancy-schmancy headlights on the DI, well, somewhat of a rage or maybe just outrageous.:victory:

[FlyingWen]

Ok.. we are getting close to buying an Xterra. I even looked into a Grand Cherokee, but still love the Xterra. I would drive a new FJ in a heartbeat, but don't like the price tag.

I don't care about color, although I did see an orange one I liked. Orange would go well with my Dixie horn that I want!

Just want power options... I am sure we'll post pic of the new addition... even if it is 2WD

[flyingwil]

even if it is 2WD

It'll be 4WD...

[The BN Guy]

It'll be 4WD...


Amen!

[jeffryscott]

It'll be 4WD...

For safety, of course.:p

[flyingwil]

Found one!

http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?p=93566#post93566